Decora spots window of opportunity for new blind

Oct 28, 2009

Decora Blind Systems in Lisburn is investing over £1.3 million, with support from Invest Northern Ireland, to enhance company capability and bring to market an innovative new product.

Decora, which currently employs over 220 people, has spent the last six months reviewing its strategic direction. It has now set ambitious targets for growth and has embarked on a project which involves investing in new equipment, product development and extensive marketing.

Invest NI has offered £157,000 of support, which has been part financed from the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF).

Now in its 30th year, Decora has grown from a small family-owned business into a dynamic, innovative enterprise and is an established and recognised brand in the UK and Republic of Ireland markets. It recently received a major award from the Home Décor and Retail Association in recognition of its high quality products and design ethos.

The company now anticipates that, as a result of the investment, it will significantly increase sales outside Northern Ireland.

Donal Durkan, Director of Invest NI’s Life Sciences and Creative Division, says: “This substantial investment is welcome news for the Northern Ireland textile industry, which has had to deal with many challenges over recent years. It reflects Decora’s commitment to innovation, which has been a mainstay of its ongoing success, and its recognition of the importance of growing external sales to maintain viability.”

Decora is also planning an extensive staff training programme to ensure the company has the skills needed to remain competitive as it goes forward.

Russell Dickson, Decora’s Sales & Marketing Director, says: “We are excited about developing and bringing to market another new quality product and are investing in machinery that is exclusive to the UK in order to increase manufacturing capabilities.

“Invest NI’s support is essential in enabling us to shorten the timeframe from design to delivery of the new product and in helping us introduce new marketing tools that we are confident will strengthen our brand and boost sales. The Home Décor and Retail Association will also support our marketing campaigns and give us a further edge over our competitors.”